Ex-Army Man's Pension Account Targeted in Chandigarh Cyber Fraud
In a distressing incident highlighting the growing threat of online financial scams, a retired Army man from Chandigarh lost Rs 92,000 from his pension account after receiving a call from an unknown number. The victim, Kishori Pal, a resident of Chandimandir in Panchkula, had his hard-earned savings siphoned off by fraudsters in a sophisticated cyber attack.
Details of the Fraudulent Incident
Kishori Pal, who retired from the Army and currently works as a supervisor of security personnel at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH-32) in Chandigarh, maintains his pension account with Punjab National Bank. On January 16, 2026, around 7 PM, while he was on duty at GMCH-32, he received a call from an unidentified number.
As soon as he answered the call, his phone malfunctioned, indicating potential remote access or hacking by the scammers. When the device resumed normal functioning, Pal discovered that six illegal transactions had been made from his pension account, totaling Rs 92,000. The transactions were executed by unknown individuals, leaving the ex-serviceman shocked and financially strained.
Ongoing Threats and Police Investigation
Adding to the concern, Kishori Pal reported that after his pension was credited again, he received calls from the same suspicious number, suggesting that the fraudsters remain active and may be targeting him or others for further scams. This repeated contact underscores the persistent nature of such cyber criminals and the need for heightened vigilance among citizens.
The Chandigarh cyber police have taken up the case and are actively tracking the transactions to identify the accused. Authorities are analyzing digital footprints and bank records to trace the perpetrators and recover the stolen funds. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in online banking and the importance of cybersecurity measures.
Broader Implications and Safety Tips
This case reflects a broader trend of increasing cyber fraud in India, where scammers often exploit trust and technical loopholes to access sensitive financial information. To protect against such threats, experts recommend:
- Avoid answering calls from unknown numbers, especially those requesting personal or banking details.
- Enable two-factor authentication on bank accounts and mobile devices for added security.
- Report suspicious activities immediately to bank authorities and cyber police to prevent further losses.
- Regularly monitor bank statements for any unauthorized transactions and set up alerts for real-time notifications.
As the investigation progresses, the Chandigarh cyber police urge the public to stay informed and cautious to combat the rising tide of online financial fraud. This incident not only highlights individual losses but also calls for stronger regulatory frameworks and public awareness campaigns to safeguard digital transactions in an increasingly connected world.
